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Afghan Hound

Afghan Hound Basics One of the oldest dog breeds and certainly one of the more “aristocratic” breeds, the Afghan Hound has become known as a sort of “king of dogs” for its appearance, general demeanor, and general nobility as a breed. Very well-suited for dog showing, these dogs are gentle and respond well to that type of attention. The Afghan Hound’s coat is remarkable, although it requires plenty of grooming. When an Afghan Hound walks in the room, people certainly take notice. There is a lot to learn about the Afghan Hound, as it has a particularly rich and ancient history and have several aspects of its personality that make it a unique dog. Considered better-suited for older children who understand how to interact with dogs, it will not be a dog for everyone. People who need a versatile working dog, for example, can probably find a better breed in the Bouvier des Flandres than they can in the Afghan Hound. Let’s learn more about this dog and what makes it part of dog breed royalty. The Afghan Hound is known as “king of dogs” for its appearance, general demeanor, and general nobility as a breed. Origin Originally hailing from areas like the Sinai Peninsula (the Afghan Hound was even mentioned/portrayed in ancient Egyptian papyrus and were painted in Afghan caves as far back as 4,000 years ago), there’s no denying the ancient origins of the Afghan Hound. Despite this long history, the breed has remained relatively pure, which means the modern deviations are not far off of the historical Afghan Hounds. As a sighthound (a dog that hunts by sight rather than necessarily using scents or the nose), the Afghan Hound has a rich history of working that its appearance might not convey. It has been both used as a shepherd and hunter, hunting down game such as deer and goats. With a thick coat, they were able to function in extreme seasons, which gives them a general outdoor versatility one would not necessarily expect. The Afghan Hound is generally considered an original without much of a pedigree to speak of… or, rather, it is one of those rare breeds that can be considered its own pedigree. Pedigree Because the Afghan Hound is such an old breed of dog, its pedigree is essentially zilch – there’s not a lot known about it. Historians can discern some hypothesis, knowing the areas where the Afghan Hound probably originated. But beyond that, the Afghan Hound is generally considered an original without much of a pedigree to speak of… or, rather, it is one of those rare breeds that can be considered its own pedigree. Food / Diet The food you give to your Afghan Hound will not be untypical for that of most dog breeds, but many people try different foods in order to “treat” the Afghan Hound’s coat – people who show their Afghan Hound, in particular. You don’t have to take any special precautions in your dog’s diet beyond assuring essential nutrition and a general food level that keeps the dog at a healthy weight.

KoolDog Indoor Dog House Perfect For Condo Living

An Indoor Dog House That’s Part Of Your Decor Modern living has gone to the dogs… well, the uber-cool, stylish ones that is. Designed to blend into you home décor, the KoolDog ain’t your backyard, DIY indoor dog house. A comfortable indoor dog house for your pet, the KoolDog boasts a patent pending design that lets you match the house to your interior surroundings. You can choose different color schemes by selecting different wood finishes for face cover and a coordinating slipcover for the cushion. Related: The Puphaus Ensures Your Dog’s Digs Are Better Than Yours “The idea behind Kooldog house is that as a pet lover, I couldn’t find any dog house that is modern and can fit into my home décor,” said Ki Park, one of the brains behind KoolDog. “The idea behind Kooldog house is that as a pet lover, I couldn’t find any dog house that is modern and can fit into my home décor,” said Ki Park, one of the brains behind KoolDog. “I love minimalistic approach in decorating my home, I truly believe that less is more and having one perfect piece of furniture is better than filling the room with stuff. Related: Building a Dog House is a Snap Thanks to Magnetized Bad Marlon’s Stylish Abodes “As a result, I have designed a dog house that is modern and can be customizable for different home décor. These days, people are more conscious about their surroundings and careful about selecting furniture for their home. Just like any other products, there are things that we buy because we need it or because we love it. Kooldog house falls into we love it at first, however, for people who are looking to decorate their home with nice furniture, it is defiantly an item that they need it for sure. Nobody likes to have an ugly plastic crate beside expansive sofa when people come over for visit.” And you don’t have to worry about keeping it clean – the KoolDog’s main body can be wiped clean using a damp cloth, while the cushion cover comes off so you can throw it in the washing machine. You can to assemble this indoor dog house yourself, but it only takes about five minutes and you don’t need any tools. The KoolDog indoor dog house comes in small and large. You can order online at the Building a Dog House is a Snap Thanks to Magnetized Bad Marlon’s Stylish Abodes.

Cocker Spaniel

Cocker Spaniel Basics In the world of dogs there is perhaps no breed more associated with a specific name than the Cocker Spaniel. The name Cocker Spaniel rolls off the tongue and reflects the actual appearance of the Spaniel itself – a small, flowing, elegant animal that is well-balanced and has a general reputation for good behavior. But what about the Cocker Spaniel makes it such a quintessential dog? Like many breeds, the Cocker Spaniel has a rich history updated into a modern appearance, but the Spaniel is not as old as even the Rottweiler. In this brief guide, we’ll take a look at the Cocker Spaniel and address how it became a breed synonymous with “quality dog.” The Cocker Spaniel is small, flowing, and elegant, and has a general reputation for good behavior. Origin The mention of “Spanyells” goes back as far as the Middle Ages – the 14th century, to be exact. There’s a good chance these Spanyells weren’t exactly the Cocker Spaniels we know today, but this specific breed of dog has certainly enjoyed a rich history. It’s assumed Spaniels first appeared in Spain during this time, but the first appearance of the phrase “Cocker Spaniel” didn’t originate until the 1800s, when a specific type of field spaniel began assuming the name. At the time, in England, the phrase Cocker Spaniel could also refer to a number of other spaniels such as the Norfolk and Sussex Spaniels, which today could be considered different breeds. This general classification gave rise to a low standard of calling a dog a Cocker Spaniel: until around 1870, the only characteristic a dog named a “Cocker Spaniel” had to have was a weight of under 25 pounds. Needless to say, the standards have risen, but the story helps illustrate why the phrase “Cocker Spaniel” seems to associate itself with any manner of small dogs.

Bloodhound

Bloodhound Basics While the name might suggest a dog that comes from Transylvania, the true nature of Bloodhounds is far different than you might expect, particularly if you’ve never worked with a Bloodhound before. One of the most famous “noses” – that is, strength of scent detection – in the world of dogs, Bloodhounds aren’t only friendly and loyal dogs but make exceptionally useful assistants in the world of law enforcement and security. So why does this breed end up with such a nasty name? Well, before we get to that, let’s focus on what makes the Bloodhound unique in a world of hounds, spaniels, and terriers. Why would you want a Bloodhound for your family? They’re a relatively plain dog that usually wouldn’t be described as “cute” unless you’ve raised one from a puppy. As you’re about to find out, there’s always more than meets the eye, and a great pet is more reliant on personality. The Bloodhound’s personality is among the best in the world of dogs and makes for a loyal house pet, a friendly companion, and a great long-term friend. So let’s get to it and find out if the Bloodhound is really a good choice for you and your family’s next pet. The Bloodhound’s personality is among the best in the world of dogs and makes for a loyal house pet, a friendly companion, and a great long-term friend. Origin When you’re talking about Bloodhounds, you’re talking about an animal with a very rich and clearly defined history dating back to the Middle Ages. Essentially descended from a dog known as the St. Hubert’s Hound, the Bloodhound made its mark on history by accompanying nobility and royalty on hunting excursions.The Bloodhound’s personality is among the best in the world of dogs and makes for a loyal house pet, a friendly companion, and a great long-term friend. These dogs would be able to sniff out prey, track down a wounded animal and generally assist with various aspects of the hunt. Its legendary nose becoming more famous, the name “Bloodhound” is perhaps a reference to the way Bloodhounds were great at sniffing out the blood of wounded prey. Some report that the Bloodhound first made its way into England at around the time of the Norman Conquest under William the Conqueror, but there are no official sources to corroborate this. Nobility used Bloodhounds not only for the hunt, but eventually as tracking dogs to assist in law enforcement. One legend states that a dog was able to track down a criminal over seven miles along a route that was heavily trafficked. Pedigree

Rottweiler

Rottweiler Basics When you say Rottweiler, it can often conjure up images of a violent, aggressive dog – the kind that isn’t exactly friendly to the mailman. But that’s not all there is to this German breed of dog, and as you’re about to find out, Rottweilers can make loyal and trustworthy pets that are worthy of the distinction of “guard dog.” But is aggressiveness to outsiders all that really defines a Rottweiler? Throughout this breed description, you’ll find out all that goes into making a Rottweiler tick and what separates it from other breeds of similar size. Rottweilers can make loyal and trustworthy pets that are worthy of the distinction of guard dog. Origin The Rottweiler might seem like a recent breed given its German heritage, but the origins of the Rottweiler go back to the Roman Empire – ancient times. The ancestors of the breed would help Roman armies by functioning as a working dog, and one of the towns that ancient Roman armies would trek through is the town of Rottweil. As the breed developed, its role shifted from that of a working dog to become a more guard dog. Many Rottweilers were used during the Middle Ages by merchants who wanted to protect their pouches of money. These merchants would tie the pouch around a Rottweiler’s neck – for many people, it was better than using a bank account! Rottweilers declined as the technology to protect items improved, but in the 1900s a new demand for police dogs rose and interest in the Rottweiler was revived. Today we know all about the aggressive but loyal Rottweiler and it has become a household name. Pedigree

Pyredoodle

Pyredoodle Basics The Pyredoodle is a mix of Standard Poodle and Great Pyrenees and it makes for a terrific dog that plays well with kids and other animals alike. Because he has a protective nature he makes a great watchdog whose bark is worse than his bite. Because of his size, he needs regular rigorous exercise and that should include active playtime. The Pyredoodle is a mix of Standard Poodle and Great Pyrenees that makes a great family dog. Origin Pyredoodles are a Designer Dog and likely originated back in the 1980s when breeders incorporated Poodles to produce low- or non-shedding variations of popular breeds. Though he’s relatively new, his lineage includes the Standard Poodle which dates back to 16th century Germany and the Great Pyrenees who goes back to the early 17th century where he was used to guard sheep in the Pyrenees Mountains between France and Spain. Pedigree

Golden Mountain Dog

Golden Mountain Dog Basics Anyone who’s in search of a larger canine breed that will be super affectionate and loyal will fall in love with the Golden Mountain Dog. These attractive pooches will adore you forever, and they won’t be afraid to show you how much they think you’re the center of their universe. But they’ll expect just as much love and attention from you in return. Active families will also enjoy the company of a Golden Mountain Dog, who won’t think twice about going hiking or jogging with you. So if you’re the type of person who has the time to devote to an attention-seeking dog, and you’re willing to take your pet on all of your adventures, this could be the perfect breed. The Golden Mountain Dog is a cross between a purebred Golden Retriever and Bernese Mountain Dog. Origin The Golden Mountain Dog is a designer dog breed whose origins aren’t entirely clear. Pedigree

Australian Kelpie

Australian Kelpie Basics The Australian Kelpie is a highly intelligent breed of herding dog that likes to work hard. The name for this breed is similar to a creature from Scottish and Irish mythology – a Kelpie is a magical water horse that has ill intentions toward humans, particularly children. In reality, the Australian Kelpie is nothing like this mythological creature – it is friendly and playful, always eager to please its human companions. If you are looking for a clever working breed, particularly for herding, the Australian Kelpie is definitely a breed to consider. The Australian Kelpie is a highly intelligent breed of herding dog that likes to work hard. Origin The origins of the Australian Kelpie can be traced back to the early collies that were imported into Australia during the early 19th century as working dogs. These working collies were bred with other breeds, possibly wild dingoes as well, to improve their abilities for working stock without direct supervision. Though dingoes were illegal to keep as pets, physical similarities between the dingo and the Australian Kelpie suggests that the two were crossed at some point in the past. The first dog to carry the Kelpie breed name was a black-and-tan female purchased from a litter by Jack Gleeson during the early 1870s. Different colors of Kelpie carry different names. Black Kelpies are often referred to as Barb Kelpies, after Barb, the Kelpie who won the Melbourne cup in 1866. Red Cloud Kelpies are the descendants of John Quinn’s Red Cloud that became well known throughout Australia. Related: Australian Cattle Dog Pedigree

Best Fish Food for Algae Eaters

Finding the perfect combination of aquarium inhabitants is an art. You want to find species that are compatible with each other in terms of size and color, but you also have to think about aggression and diet as well. Once you’ve established the ideal balance, it can be challenging to add a new inhabitant to the tank. If you’re struggling to control problem algae, however, adding a new species could be your best option. Bristlenose Plecostomus, oto cats, and other algae eaters are a natural and long-term solution for problem algae, but they require care of their own.

Mastador

Mastador Basics If you are specifically seeking out a dog who will quickly feel like a member of the family, then you may have just found your newest furry relative. The Mastador is a great family dog with a tremendously friendly yet protective nature. Gentle giants in the truest sense, these large dogs might look intimidating to some, but they are actually very sweet and make perfect pets for families. Some dogs are big enough to pose a threat, while others are big enough to cuddle properly. The Mastador falls into the latter category. They love affection, being involved in family activities, as well as playing with their owners, kids and other dogs. A Mastador can be protective and will defend their home and family if they feel it’s necessary, so socialization and behavioral training should be completed at an early age. This is a dog that requires special and attentive training, so be sure to keep that in mind and make that you are up for the responsibility. The unique combination of traits is something that the Mastador owes purely to his parents. As a designer dog breed, this big sweetheart of a pooch is actually a mix of two purebred dogs- the Bullmastiff and the Labrador Retriever. The two parental breeds pass on the best of their traits to the offspring- accounting for the mix of protective and sweet in the Mastador. With a pedigree like that, it’s easy to see why this pooch is so beloved. Of course, even though the Mastador is an adaptable dog that does well in various living situations, these hybrids are not a perfect match for everybody. They require experienced owners who will know how to assert themselves as the leader of the pack. Similarly, their energy levels and size should also be considered before you make a final decision. So, is the Mastador the dog that you’ve been looking for? Well, the good news is that you’ve come to the right place to find out. All you need to do is keep your eyes glued to this page and scroll away. Everything that you could possibly want to know about these glorious canines is about to be revealed. So, to find out if your family would make a perfect match for the Mastiff and Lab mix, read on! The Mastador is a great family dog with a tremendously friendly yet protective nature. Origin While his lineage hales from the United Kingdom (specifically Bullmastiff) and Newfoundland, Canada (specifically Labrador), the Mastador hybrid actually originated in the United States. Yet, apart from the place where this rare and impressive breed was first developed, there’s not much else we do know about the origin of the Mastador. The majority of designer dog breeds faces the same “issue” mainly because of the fact that there have always been around, but rather than being intentionally developed, they were often the results of accidental pairings between purebred pets. There’s very little documented history about hybrids. It’s uncertain when specific breeders even began specializing in the Mastador. No breeders have come out and claimed that the Bullmastiff and Labrador Retriever mix was their creation, so there’s no way to know when or who first bred Mastadors intentionally. However, the general information er have about hybrids gives us an idea about the Mastiff and Lab mix, too- it’s highly likely that first litters of this new breed were born sometime in the last 15 to 20 years. Unfortunately, we aren’t able to determine much more of a specific history than that. Pedigree

How To Calm A Hyper Kitten

Doxiepoo

Doxiepoo Basics The Doxiepoo is also known as the Doxiedoodle, Dachshundpoo or Dachshunddoodle… but Doxiepoo is arguably the cutest to say and easiest to pronounce. Depending on how much the Doxiepoo takes from its parents, the may have the poodle’s hypoallergenic fur and ease of trainability. The more they take from their Dachshund parent, the greater their chance of having short fur and a longer, lower frame. In general, the Doxiepoo is a well-mannered dog who has no problem being their master’s sole source of affection and attention. However, should your Doxiepoo be introduced to children when their puppies, he will no doubt grow up thinking they are all siblings. They do not easily take to other pets unless they have be socialized at a young age. For this reason, we recommend the Doxiepoo being the only pooch in the house – trust us, they’ll provide enough entertainment for a lifetime of laughs! If you’re consistent, keep a positive attitude and always reward good behavior with treats, Doxiepoos will no doubt learn every trick in the book… and then some. Doxiepoo Origin The Doxiepoo is a mix between a Dachshund and Toy Poodle. The Poodle originated in Germany (not France ) and were mostly used as water retriever dogs. When hunters would shoot ducks, Poodles were the four-legged swimmers who would get them from lakes and rivers. They are easily trained, mischievous and don’t like to be left alone. Dachshunds also originated in Germany but unlike Poodles who retrieved the hunted, they were the hunters! When they branched out into Great Britain, they were bred to become companions rather than hunters. Today, they are mostly companion dogs who are always up for a good movie, cuddled snugly in your lap. For the past two decades, many purebred dogs have been cross-bred to make new designer dog breeds that combine the likeness and characteristics of two different breeds. The Doxiepoo is the result of mixing a purebred Dachshund and a purebred Poodle. Pedigree

Sarplaninac

Sarplaninac Basics A large, fluffy dog with a dark-colored coat, the Sarplaninac is more than just a big, cuddly bear of a pooch. The Sarplaninac is a livestock-guarding breed that was developed in the mountainous regions of Macedonia, Albania and Kosovo. Despite its large size, this dog is good with people, even if it does take them a little while to warm up. Because of their natural protective instincts, this breed makes a great guard dog. The Sarplaninac is a livestock-guarding breed that was developed in the mountainous regions of Macedonia, Albania and Kosovo. Origin The Sarplaninac originates from an area that was once called Illyria but is now called Macedonia. The breed was developed as a livestock guardian and it has been known to fight off large predators like lynxes, wolves, and bears. When the breed was first registered with the FCI it was under the name Illyrian Shepherd Dog – that was changed to Yugoslav Shepherd Dog – Sarplaninac in 1954. The exact origins of the breed are unknown, though its ancestors may have come to the Balkan Peninsula with people who migrated from ancient Asia. The Sarplaninac is actually one of the oldest native breeds in the world, developed from ancient Molosser breeds. Pedigree

How To Clean A Stinky Dog Collar in 8 Simple Steps

What’s that smell? It’s not dog breath – it’s coming from his collar! We often forget that collars need to be washed to help keep our pooches smelling fresh. Wow! That stinks! How many times has this been your reaction when you smell a strong odor coming from your dog’s collar? This is a common situation that many dog owners often solve by purchasing a new collar. Save your money! The good news is you can easily clean his collar and have it smelling fresh quickly. Whether it’s an already made product or a homemade recipe, you can have that collar going from staaaannnky to stupendous in no time. Why Does My Dog’s Collar Stink? Let’s just face it. Our dogs like being dirty. And that means their collars get dirty too. Obviously–if you know your dog’s been sprayed by a skunk or been rolling around in the local deer poo–you have a pretty good idea of why his neck makes you want to gag. But the reality is that collars are often the least-considered aspect of keeping our dogs groomed and we forget that dirt, mold, bacteria, parasites and a whole host of other ickies like to hang out in our dogs’ collars. Many collars have fibers that hold on to those germies, and then when you mixe that with your dog’s body oils, dirt on fir and even sweat and skin smell? A collar can reek. And it really makes no difference what the collar material is, honestly. Leather, polyester, nylon…they all get dirty and they all need to be cleaned properly (and regularly) to help ward off infection as well as stinky dog smell. How To Clean Synthetic Dog Collars Doing this is probably easier than you may have thought. Every time you clean or bathe your dog, do so for his collar. If you bathe or groom at home, you can use that same dog shampoo you’re using on Fido on most synthetic collars. If there are some stains, you can use an old tooth-brush or soft-bristled brush to get into the nooks and crannies of the collar. Be sure to use hot water for best bacterial cleaning and then hang by the buckle until it’s totally dry. You don’t necessarily want to put it back on your dog until it is (prevents yeast issues), so be sure you have a backup collar for your dog while you’re cleaning it. You don’t want him to run off with no ID! Related: 4 DIY Homemade Cleaners That Are Safe For Dogs What To Do If Your Dog’s Collar Is Badly Stained? Some pet parents like to use vinegar and baking soda on really stained collars. It’s a safe, non-toxic way to get stains (and smells) out, and you can make a solution of this and let a synthetic collar soak (or be brushed) to get the collar clean. You’ll want to rinse with hot water again, and let it fully dry by hanging. This is only for synthetic or cloth collars; leather collars need different care. How To Clean A Leather Dog Collar If your dog’s leather collar just needs some spot cleaning, you can still use a vinegar/baking soda mix and a toothbrush to gently spot clean where it’s needed. You’ll want to rinse gently (but not submerge for extended time) and you’ll want to completely dry it out when you’re done. Leather conditioner after is always a wise move and way to preserve the collar. If your dog’s leather collar needs more cleaning than just spot cleaning, you can buy a leather cleaner to do the job. If in a pinche because poochy got into something raunchy and rolled everywhere, you can use a gentle dog soap or mild cleaner and warm water, but you’ll want to be sure to let it dry fully and condition after if you can so you preserve the integrity of the leather. Easy DIY Recipe For Cleaning Dog Collars If you’re looking for an all-purpose solution for regular collar cleaning, this little diddy takes about 10-15 minutes from start to finish and keeps your dog’s collar clean and stink-free! Items Needed Bowl or bucketRubber glovesBaking sodaToothbrush or similar brushLavender oilTowel Step 1: Fill the bowl or bucket with warm water and add 2 teaspoons of baking soda. Stir until the baking soda has been melted by the water. Step 2: Place the dog collar in the water and let it soak for 10 minutes. Related: DIY Cleaning Solutions For Stinky Pet Stains Step 3: Scrub the collar with a toothbrush or similar type of brush until clean. Make sure you get in all of the crevices of the collar. Repeat step 1, 2 and 3 until the collar is clean and odor has lessened considerably. Step 4: Clean and rinse the bowl or bucket thoroughly and refill the bucket with fresh water, adding 2 drops of lavender oil. You can also use peppermint oil or any other essential oil that you may prefer. Step 5: Soak the collar in the aromatic mixture until the bad odor has disappeared. Step 6: Rinse the collar off by running it under the faucet. Step 7: Pat the collar dry and place it on a flat surface to dry. Step 8: Place the fresh-smelling collar on your dog. Dog collars absorb oils from the skin as well as attracts dirt and grime. Depending on your dog’s activity level outdoors, you may need to clean his collar on a regular basis to keep it clean. Dog’s that enjoy the outdoors, go swimming, roll around in the mud and participate in high-level activities will require frequent cleaning. Keep in mind indoor dogs will also need a good cleaning once you detect the first scent of odor. The above cleaning method is suitable for fabric, nylon and leather collars. You can also add 1 teaspoon of apple cider vinegar to the baking soda and water mixture if you find that the collar has deep stains. At times, a leather collar may require additional cleaning. If you observe staining or discoloration in a leather collar you will want to use saddle soap to remove deep, set-in stains. Notes For Before You Get Started Always use rubber gloves to protect your hands and arms while cleaning the collar. Avoid submerging your hands in the baking soda and water mixture. It can cause dryness and irritation to those who are sensitive to baking soda. As an alternative you can replace the baking soda with apple cider vinegar. Keeping your dog’s collar clean on a regular basis will prevent odor and keep the collar in good condition, which keeps your dog smelling sweet and saves you money. It will also keep the skin that is nearest to the collar healthy, since dirt buildup can develop into bacteria have a negative impact on the skin. Repeat the steps as much as needed during each cleaning session to reveal a clean, fresh scented dog collar.

Maremma Sheepdog

Maremma Sheepdog BasicsAlso known as the Cane de Pastore Maremmano-Abruzzese or simply the Maremmano, the Maremma Sheepdog is an Italian breed of livestock guarding dog. These dogs are known for their thick white coats, fluffy tails, and their fearlessness. The name for this breed comes from the Maremma marshlands where the breed worked for thousands of years, though sheep-farming has decreased in this area in recent years.The Maremma Sheepdog is an Italian breed of livestock guarding dog.OriginThe Maremma Sheepdog is a livestock guarding breed native to the mountains of Tuscany. Breeds of this type have existed since ancient Roman times so the exact origins of the Maremma Sheepdog are unknown. The first time the Maremma Sheepdog was registered occurred in 1898 – the breed was known as the Maremmano in the Libro delle Origini Italiano at the time and it was registered with the Kennel Club Italiano. The first standard for the breed was published in 1924.Pedigree

Easy-Peasy Peanut Butter Dog Treats Recipe

Here’s A Recipe For An Easy Peasy Peanut Butter Treat That Will Set Your Dog’s Tail Wagging!It’s easy to feed your dog exclusively out of packages and cans that you buy at a store. Most people do. It’s pretty standard. However, it doesn’t have to be that way. After all, if you want to take control of your diet, you would hit the kitchen and make some healthy meals. Your dog deserves the same respect and fortunately there are plenty of recipes out there for homemade food and treats that are just as delicious as they are nutritious. While that may sound daunting, it really isn’t. Making treats for your pup can be fun and easy. All it takes is the right recipe. Like this one!Dogs flip out for peanut butter. That’s a fact and it’s easy to see why. After all, what’s not to love about peanut butter? It’s tasty, it sticks to the roof of your mouth, and it’s full of nom nom nom goodness. Give your dog a treat with peanut butter and watch the joy splash across their face. A peanut butter treat is an excellent way to make your dog’s day. Best of all? Peanut butter is healthy. It is full to the brim of all the wholesome, important nutrients and vitamins dogs need. It has Vitamin E, magnesium, selenium, iron, and Vitamin B6. And research shows that people who eat peanut butter regularly are less prone to develop heart disease and diabetes. The same must go for doggos, right? There is no reason not to include a bit of that peanuty good stuff in their diet too. The only trouble is that so many of them are pretty difficult to make.If you’re like me, you don’t have much time to spend in the kitchen, but you still always want to bake your pooch up some yummy treats he’d learn a new trick for. When we came across the Easy-Peasy Peanut Butter Dog Treats Recipe, we knew it was right up our alley (in regards to skill level). We tested this one out on our happy little test pup, Oscar, and he couldn’t get enough of them. Clearly dogs love these treats, but their humans should like them too because they are easy to make and are packed full of healthy ingredients. What’s not to love? Nothing. Absolutely nothing. You and your dog need this in your lives immediately. So, what are you waiting for? Keep on reading and make this treats asap!An easy-to-make treat your dog will love!Easy-Peasy Peanut Butter Dog Treats (this recipe makes about 3 dozen)You will need the following ingredients to make your dog’s day:2 cups whole wheat flour1 and 1/2 teaspoons baking powder1/3 cup smooth natural or even organic peanut butter1 cup hot water (or 1 cup skim milk)Optional: 1 egg (Oscar loves eggs, so I put one in. It makes him happy, plus it’s awesome for a shiny coat)Next, follow these six easy steps:1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) 2. Thoroughly mix together the flour and baking powder in a big bowl.3. In a separate bowl, mix together the peanut butter and the hot water (or skim milk) until smooth. Slowly add in the dry mixture and mix it all together well. Add a little more water or milk if the dough is too dry, or flour if it’s too wet. Eventually you’ll find a happy balance.4. Place the mixture onto your counter (put down a little flour for ease) and roll it all out to a 1/4″ thickness.5. Cut the mix with a cookie cutter (choose the shapes of your choice!) and place it all on a cookie sheet.6. Bake for 20 minutes or until lightly brown. Let it all cool, and then let the begging begin! Your pup will go crazy once he realizes that you’re baking just for him!A Few Extra Tips for Making Your Own Homemade Dog TreatsIf you are new to making dog treats at home, this is a great recipe to start with. As you can see, it is really easy, and there aren’t a lot of ingredients involved. Trust me, not all homemade dog treats are like that. Some recipes will even make experience chefs sweat a little bit. However, once you get the hang of things, you can experiment with making a wider range of dog treat recipes to give your dog even more flavors to enjoy. It’s amazing how many dog treat recipes are out there. This could be a whole new world to explore with your pup!Speaking of flavors that your dog will enjoy, you can even take any recipe and tweak its ingredients to suit your pooch’s flavor preferences. For example, you can substitute ingredients that you know your dog doesn’t like for other healthy options. Some examples of healthy dog treat ingredients include rolled oats, oat flour, rye flour, chickpea flour, kelp, unsweetened apple sauce, blueberries, baby food, low-sodium broth, canned pumpkin, sweet potato, banana, mashed potato or mashed sweet potato, kale, apple cider vinegar, cheddar cheese, flaxseeds, fish oil, carrots, and yogurt. Whew! That’s a lot, huh? It’s amazing how many healthy options are out there for dogs. So feel free to experiment and find out what your dog loves the most. Or, you could even come up with your own original recipes using these ingredients! The possibilities are almost endless! Just don’t go too wild when trying to concoct a dog-friendly recipe your pooch will love. Experiments can often go awry, so stick to the proven stuff! Changing out ingredients is also necessary if your canine companion suffers from any food allergies or if he has an intolerance to certain ingredients. As an example, using chickpea flour is a great way to take out any wheat that your dog might be allergic to. Or, if your pooch doesn’t feel too good after having dairy, you could opt for oat milk instead of regular milk. It all depends on your pooch. Don’t stress if they have allergies because there are so many healthy options available. Eventually you’ll find something that they love.Remember, there are ingredients that are toxic to dogs, so you should never use them in any of your dog treat recipes. Those include raisins and grapes, as well as chocolate, artificial colors and sweeteners, macadamia nuts, nutmeg, xylitol, and baby food that contains garlic or onions. Avoid these ingredients at all costs, no matter how much you love them yourself. Your dog may take on plenty of your habits, but diet certainly shouldn’t be one of them!When you have extra treats that you want to store away, allow them to cool completely first. If your treats don’t contain any meat ingredients, you can just place them in an airtight container. Stored properly, they might last a couple of weeks if kept at room temperature. However, if you’ve made treats that contain meat or treats that are moist, you should store them in your refrigerator. Even then, they might only last a week. So be careful! Just because your doggo will happy scarf down spoiled treats doesn’t mean that his little body will appreciate it!Why Bother Making Your Own Dog Treats? Don’t They Sell Those In Stores?Yes, there are plenty of dog treats available in stores. In fact, there are hundreds of them: small, large, good, bad, tasty, awful, cheap, expensive. However, that doesn’t mean that your dog doesn’t deserve some home cooked food just like his humans! Sure, making your own dog treats at home can be a bit time-consuming, but it’s amazing just how many advantages there are to giving your dog some homemade treats rather than simply relying on store bought ones. There are so many reasons why more and more pet parents are taking charge and setting aside some time to make food for their beloved canine companions. It is fun, it is healthy, and it is rewarding for everyone. No reason not to try it!Put simply, it can be hard to find high quality dog treats that don’t contain any artificial ingredients or low quality ingredients that you don’t want your dog to have on a regular basis. Treat manufacturers fill treats with crap that you would never feed your dog if even the choice. And give your pooch to many of these, and they can soon start getting a bit chubby all over. That is never good, is it? When you bake your own treats at home, you’ll be in total control over what goes into your dog’s food, and that can help you rest easily. Especially if your dog has a sensitive tummy or he suffers from allergies. In that case, it’s always best to take control of your pup’s diet.Of course, there is also the economic factor involved. Sometimes, those tastiest doggo treats with the cleanest, natural ingredients can put quite a dent in your monthly budget. Skipping one such purchase and making these tasty DIY treats instead can leave you with a nice monthly bonus in the budget. Still, this is not an invitation to skimp out and never buy anything nice for your pet. Homemade dog treats are also great when you are beginning training. If you know that your pupper has an affinity for these delicious peanut butter dog treats, then you should certainly utilize them as a positive reinforcement during training. Just watch as the good results come pouring in! Benefits of Peanut Butter for DogsNot only do most dogs find peanut butter to be an irresistible flavor, but it also offers several nutritional benefits. This makes it a win/win situation for everyone involved! Peanut butter is a great source of protein, which is an essential part of any dog’s diet. It’s also high in fiber, vitamin B, vitamin E, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, and healthy fatty acids. It is good for humans, it is good for dogs – it’s good all around. Why not use those benefits to everyone’s gain?Benefits of peanut butter include:Improve the health of skin, coat, bones, teeth, and nailsBoost immune systemPrevent or address arthritisIncrease brain functionSpeed up bowel movementsDecrease the chances of diarrhea or constipationAssist with the creation and distribution of enzymes, antibodies, and hormonesProvide a boost in energyReduce the negative impact of free radicalsOf course, peanut butter isn’t a balanced diet on its own. Feed your dog a high quality, well balanced diet, and the peanut butter treats will be an added nutritional bonus. Remember that a balanced diet needs plenty of diverse foods and nutrients, such as proteins, fiber, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, and many other goodies. Peanut butter alone cannot fulfill all that, so don’t think of it as some almighty wonder food. It’s good – but not that good. Beware of XylitolWhen shopping for peanut butter to make treats for your dog, you need to read the label carefully. Some brands of peanut butter contain xylitol which is highly toxic. If your dog does ingest peanut butter (or any other food) with xylitol, it can cause hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), liver damage, or seizures. In the most severe cases of xylitol poisoning, ingestion can be fatal. If you suspect your dog may have ingested xylitol, take them to the emergency veterinarian as quickly as possible. The earlier they receive treatment, the better their chances of survival. Watch Out for Sneaky Secret IngredientsOften enough, mass-produced industrial peanut butter also contains other nasty additions that a lot of low quality industrial food contains that you certainly don’t want in your dog’s diet. They have emulsifiers, sodium, and many other chemicals, all meant to add taste and provide longer shelf life. Avoid these products.It is quite simple to make your own peanut butter, free from any chemicals. It might not have an extremely long shelf life, but it will still be equally tasty and last you long enough. All it takes is some unsalted peanuts that you grind down in your common mixer until it becomes that sweet tasty paste that we all know and love. You can save money and know all the while that the peanut butter you are using is as healthy as can be - without any of the nutrients being lost. What Do You and Your Dog Think?If you try your hand at this Easy-Peasy Peanut Butter Dog Treats Recipe, let us know how it goes. I used dog bone cookie cutters to make them extra cute! Upload pictures of your treats on our Facebook page or tell us how they turned out by leaving a comment down below. And if you have any suggestions on how to make this recipe better, please leave a comment!

Miniature Aussiedoodle

Miniature Aussiedoodle BasicsThere are few dogs more seductively adorable than this. Small, sweet, sassy, and smart- you’d be crazy not to fall in love with these unique dogs. These obscenely cute doggos inspire love at first sight whereever their furry little bodies appear. The loving and little Miniature Aussiedoodle brings the hypoallergenic properties of the Miniature Poodle together with the playful nature of the Miniature Australian Shepherd. The result is an active and low-shedding dog that is great with kids and other animals. If you have some experience as a dog owner, you’ll see that this hybrid learns quickly and responds well to positive reinforcement training. In fact, many pet owners train their Miniature Aussiedoodles for competitions and dog sports due to their intelligence. There’s very little that this dog can’t do.Of course, while there are many things that make Miniature Aussiedoodle appealing to pet owners, there are also traits and quirks this breed has that not everyone can appreciate. For example, his love of all things family means he doesn’t do well when left alone for long periods, so a stay-at-home family member or a dog walker would be just the ticket for this affectionate pooch. Similarly, his curious and playful nature leads to relatively high energy levels and people looking for a couch potato breed might not find these hybrids to their liking.So, is this the dog destined to come home to you and your family? There’s only one way to find out. Keep your eyes glued to this page and scroll away. All will be revealed. So, to ensure Miniature Aussiedoodle is the ideal match for your family and vice versa, keep on reading! It’s really your only option.The Miniature Aussiedoodle combines the hypo-allergenic Miniature Poodle with the Miniature Australian Shepherd.OriginThe origin of the Miniature Aussiedoodle is unclear, but that’s true for the majority of designer dog breeds. In the late 1980s, when Labradoodles became all the rage and set the trend for crossbreeds. From there, many mixes followed. The Miniature Aussiedoodle is just one of the dozens of ‘doodle’ designer dogs that hoped to combine the hypoallergenic coat and the intelligence of the Poodle with other desirable traits from a second purebred. Based on what we know about designer dogs in general, it’s probable that the Miniature Aussiedoodles were first bred in the United States, sometime in the last 20 to 30 years. Unfortunately, we simply don’t know much about the history of the breed beyond that.The history of the Miniature Aussiedoodle might be short and somewhat enigmatic, but the same can’t be said for parental breeds. Their history is quite rich and storied! The Poodle started out in Germany centuries ago as a hunting retriever-style dog, but has been bred throughout generations to achieve more of a more companionship-centered personality (as well as a variety of sizes). The Miniature Australian Shepherd was first introduced in the United States back in the late 1980s and contributes 50% of the Miniature Aussiedoodle’s DNA. This smaller-scale pooch is not a crossbred version of the full-sized Australian Shepherd but in fact a purebred. By continually selecting and breeding the smallest pup in the litter, breeders were able to produce a pint-sized version of the Aussie native. Hence the Miniature Australian Shepherd moniker. This tiny pup earned that name!Pedigree

Psyllium Fiber for Cats: A Natural Remedy for Constipation

Did you know that you can add fiber to your kitty’s diet? Let’s talk about psyllium fiber for cats and how it can help.Taking a holistic or natural approach to your cat’s care is certainly possible. If your pet is dealing with constipation, for example, you might consider psyllium fiber as a potential remedy. But what is psyllium fiber, and how does it work? How should you use it in your cat’s diet, and are there any precautions that you need to take?We’ve compiled some helpful information on psyllium fiber below to give you greater insight into what it’s used for and how it might be able to help kitties that have certain digestive issues.Note: If you’re thinking about trying psyllium fiber, such as to help your pet have a bowel movement when constipated, we recommend consulting with your veterinarian first. Professional veterinary guidance can help ensure that you’ll choose the appropriate remedy at the right dose for your pet, especially if your feline friend is taking other supplements or medications or has been diagnosed with a medical condition.Related: How To Naturally Treat Common Digestive Disorders In CatsWhat Is Psyllium Fiber?Psyllium fiber is a natural fiber from the plantago ovata plant, and it is a source of insoluble and soluble fiber. It is also the main ingredient that is used in the popular over-the-counter fiber supplement, Metamucil.Insoluble fiber won’t dissolve in water, and it can add some bulk to your cat’s stool to help increase the speed at which it will move through your pet’s digestive system. Soluble fiber, on the other hand, will dissolve in water, so it will form a gel within the animal’s digestive tract, and it can encourage smoother movement. So, in other words, both of these types of fiber can help when it comes to maintaining healthy digestion and avoiding constipation.Related: Can Your Cat Be A Vegetarian?What Can Psyllium Fiber Do to Support Your Kitty’s Health?There are a few things that psyllium can do to help your kitty feel better, particularly when it comes to your furry friend’s digestive system. Here are some of the reasons why it might be worth asking your veterinarian if your fur baby would benefit from psyllium fiber:Constipation: If your cat is experiencing difficulty with having bowel movements, you definitely want to have her checked by a veterinarian, as this is not a problem that should be ignored. Your vet can examine your kitty and evaluate her overall condition to work on figuring out what is to blame for the constipation. And your vet might recommend a supplement like psyllium fiber to help get things moving again if your kitty has been diagnosed with constipation. How could psyllium be useful in this situation? Put simply, this supplement may help increase the bulk of your cat’s stool, thereby stimulating movement in the intestines to get the stool out, and it may also help boost the water in your cat’s stool to make it easier to pass.Diarrhea: In addition to potentially helping your cat if she is constipated, psyllium fiber might also be a good natural remedy if she is experiencing diarrhea. Your veterinarian might recommend taking steps like fasting your kitty for a short amount of time before giving her small amounts of food to see if the diarrhea resolves. And you might also be told to try psyllium fiber, which can be added to a bland diet or to your pet’s usual food, to see if it helps your companion feel better sooner. Just remember that it’s important to ensure your kitty isn’t getting dehydrated if she’s dealing with diarrhea. And you always want to follow your vet’s instructions closely when tackling this problem and working on helping your cat feel better as soon as possible. Inflammatory Bowel Disease: This is a condition that can cause a variety of symptoms, and it’s really important to take steps to address this problem before it worsens, so don’t ignore it. If your cat has been diagnosed with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), working closely with your vet is imperative, as you want to be sure you can give your kitty everything that she needs to feel better. Psyllium fiber might be recommended in this case because it may be helpful when tackling problems like diarrhea and constipation.Hairballs: Does your cat throw up hairballs often? Then you might be looking for a solution that can help reduce the frequency of those hairballs. Well, fiber may be worth trying, as it might support your kitty’s body in pushing the hair through the digestive tract and then out of the body through the stool. And if you want to add a little more fiber to your cat’s diet, psyllium might be the right choice.    The Importance of Water When Giving a Cat Psyllium FiberWhenever you give your cat psyllium fiber, it’s super important to also provide your pet with plenty of water. That’s because an obstruction might occur in the intestines if the psyllium fiber is ingested without adequate amounts of water.If your kitty doesn’t seem interested in drinking water, you aren’t alone. Some cats won’t drink a lot of water from a bowl, which is why many pet parents turn to water fountains for cats. Basically, the running water might entice a kitty to drink more than a bowl of standing water would.  In addition to providing a bowl of fresh, clean water at all times, another strategy that may work well is to simply add some water to your companion’s wet food. Doing so can help ensure your cat is staying properly hydrated, so this may be the best way to go when trying psyllium fiber. How Do You Give a Cat Psyllium Fiber?Before giving your kitty psyllium fiber, it’s important to learn about the best and safest ways to go about doing so. That way, you can provide your pet with the benefits of this fiber, with the lowest risk of any possible side effects. Also, we can’t stress this enough: even when it comes to something natural, it is always smart to talk to your veterinarian first, especially if your cat is on any medications or taking any supplements, or if your pet is on a special diet. And it is especially important to consult with a vet if your pet has been diagnosed with a medical condition that you are managing with or without medications. Adding psyllium fiber to your cat’s foodAs mentioned above, to help your kitty get more fiber to relieve her constipation, while also ensuring there is enough moisture when doing so, you can try adding psyllium powder to her wet food. This is easy to do, as you just have to add the appropriate amount of psyllium to the food, mix it in thoroughly, and then feed your cat as you normally do. Provided that your kitty doesn’t realize that you added the fiber, or doesn’t mind it even if she does notice, you should find that she eats her meal without any complaints.  Getting the dose right is also important. Contact your veterinarian to figure out how much psyllium fiber you should be adding to your cat’s food, and how often you should give her the psyllium fiber. The dose may depend on your cat’s condition and weight, and your veterinarian may tweak his or her recommendations based on how your kitty responds to this treatment.Closely following your vet’s instructions regarding how much psyllium fiber to give, and how often to give it, can help ensure you get the best results possible. But it is also important to keep in mind that this remedy might not work immediately. For example, it might take upwards of 72 hours before you begin to see improvements in your kitty’s condition. Your vet can advise you on what signs to look for to figure out if the psyllium is working or if you should stop giving it to your pet.Important Note: Although you might think of simply giving your cat some Metamucil, beware that this product may contain other ingredients, such as artificial sweeteners and flavors, that can be harmful to your cat. So, before you do, carefully read ingredients and talk to your vet to be sure it’s safe. What about cat food or supplements with psyllium fiber in it?If you come across any cat foods, treats, or supplements that contain psyllium, such as Vet's Best Chewable Tablets Hairball Control Supplement for Cats, remember to check all of the ingredients. And, again, it is a good idea to talk to your veterinarian before giving any to your pet, as you want to be sure it’s the right move.  Your veterinarian might even recommend certain fiber supplements that contain psyllium, and you would need to follow the instructions carefully for those products to be sure you give your cat the right amount.  Consider psyllium fiber a short-term solutionExperts note that psyllium fiber is often best used on a short-term basis. Including it in your pet’s diet long-term might cause it to lose its effectiveness. Your vet will be able to guide you when it comes to how and when to use psyllium fiber. And if your kitty is dealing with chronic constipation, know that there are also other strategies that you could implement to help restore and maintain digestive health.Are There Any Precautions to Take?Whenever you are thinking about adding a new supplement to your pet’s diet, even if it’s natural like psyllium fiber, it is wise to talk to your veterinarian first. That way, you can discuss your pet’s condition and determine if psyllium fiber is truly right for your companion. Also, as mentioned above, your veterinarian can give you instructions regarding dosage, and can advise on how long you should give your kitty this fiber to help improve her digestion. Plus, if your cat is being given psyllium to help with a digestive ailment like constipation, your veterinarian can help you track her progress, including if and how she’s improving with this fiber added to her diet. Talking to your vet can also shed light on any precautions you should take when giving your cat psyllium fiber. But, to get a general idea of what to expect and what to look out for, keep reading. Water is a priority. First off, as discussed earlier, it’s necessary that you provide psyllium fiber with your pet’s wet food, and ensure your cat is getting enough moisture from her food and clean water. Maintaining proper hydration is another way to help your kitty remain constipation-free. But, as mentioned above, you also want to make sure your cat is getting plenty of moisture throughout the day and night when you’re giving her psyllium because this can help you avoid problems like obstructions that may occur if the animal isn’t getting enough water. As you can see, the need for moisture when giving this fiber to your cat can’t be stressed enough.Side effects are a possibility. Secondly, keep an eye out for side effects. When giving a cat psyllium fiber, side effects such as gas, stomach discomfort, or loose stools might occur. And it’s a good idea to ask your veterinarian about any other side effects that might develop as well. Be sure to contact your vet if vomiting occurs, if your pet has trouble having a bowel movement, or if she starts to have loose stools. Report all side effects to your veterinarian right away so you can figure out what steps to take to help your cat.Psyllium fiber isn’t for all cats. Finally, it’s important to be aware that psyllium fiber isn’t always safe for a cat to take. For example, it shouldn’t be given if the kitty is suffering from fecal impaction. It might also interact with certain medications. Therefore, it’s best to ask your vet before giving your cat any psyllium fiber. And you might need to have your pet examined to determine the cause of the constipation or other digestive ailments before psyllium fiber is prescribed. Don’t just assume that psyllium fiber is the appropriate solution to your cat’s digestive issues. Instead, have your cat checked by a vet to get a diagnosis so you’ll know what’s really going on and causing her symptoms. Your vet can then recommend the treatments that are right for your pet based on her condition and needs. The Bottom Line:Psyllium might be just what your cat needs if she is experiencing digestive problems like constipation or diarrhea, and it might also be recommended by your veterinarian if your cat has been diagnosed with certain medical problems, such as irritable bowel disease. This fiber is quite easy to add to your pet’s diet. As long as it’s appropriate for your kitty, it might be the remedy that helps to get things moving in a healthy way again.  Just bear in mind that it’s better to be safe by working under the guidance of your vet, even when using a natural product like psyllium powder. Plus, your vet can direct you to the products that are best for your cat, as you might find foods, treats, and supplements that contain this ingredient too. So, if you think psyllium might be right for your feline companion, talk it over with your veterinarian and use a high-quality product that will be effective in supporting your pet’s health in a natural way. 

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